High Blood Pressure in Children

Definition

High blood pressure is a blood pressure measurement that is higher than normal. Blood pressure is the force of blood on the blood vessel walls. It is measured as two numbers, for example 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). These two numbers stand for:

Systolic pressure (the higher number)—the pressure inside of the arteries during each heart beat

Diastolic pressure (the lower number)—the pressure inside of the arteries in between each heart beat

For adults, 120/80 mmHg is considered a normal reading. Children’s blood pressure readings are lower than adults. Their blood pressure is based on a child’s gender, age, and height. This means that what is considered normal or high blood pressure changes as your child grows.

Symptoms

High blood pressure usually does not cause any symptoms. In some cases, though, your child may:

Have a headache

Feel dizzy

Have vision problems

Feel tired

Diagnosis

Your child’s blood pressure is measured at least once per year after your child turns three years of age. An arm cuff and a special device are used to take the reading. The doctor then uses a chart to find which percentile your child is in. This chart is based on your child’s gender, age, and height.

If a reading suggests high blood pressure, your child’s blood pressure will be measured several more times. The average reading will be used to make the diagnosis. This is done in part to eliminate something called "white coat syndrome." Some children can feel very anxious when seeing the doctor. This can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure.

To find out if your child has an underlying condition, the doctor will ask about your child’s medical history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may also order tests, such as:

The doctor may also check for other related conditions (eg,
high cholesterol
, diabetes, sleep apnea).

Treatment

The doctor will work with you and your child to create a treatment plan. If your child has an underlying condition, this will be treated. Treating the underlying condition can help the high blood pressure return to normal.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Blood pressure levels for boys by age and height percentiles. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute website. Available at:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/hypertension/child%5Ftbl.pdf. Accessed June 19, 2012.

High blood pressure in children. American Academy of Pediatrics, Healthy Children.org website. Available at:
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/heart/pages/High-Blood-Pressure-in-Children.aspx. Updated January 9, 2012. Accessed June 19, 2012.

High blood pressure in children. American Heart Association website. Available at:
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/UnderstandYourRiskforHighBloodPressure/High-Blood-Pressure-in-Children%5FUCM%5F301868%5FArticle.jsp. Updated April 4, 2012. Accessed June 19, 2012.